The Miami Dolphins are embarking on a new chapter in franchise history as they enter the 2026 NFL season with a dramatically reshaped roster and coaching staff. The organization’s decision to part ways with former franchise quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and bring in Malik Willis as the new starter has sparked intense debate among fans and analysts alike about the team’s depth at the most important position on the field.
A New Era Under Center in Miami
On July 23, 2026, the Dolphins’ front office confirmed what many had anticipated: the team is currently planning to enter the regular season with just two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. Willis, known for his explosive athleticism and dual-threat capabilities, will lead the offense with Quinn Ewers serving as the backup. However, this roster construction has raised significant questions about whether the organization is adequately prepared for potential injuries.
The concern stems primarily from Willis’s playing style, which differs dramatically from his predecessor. While Tagovailoa operated primarily as a pocket passer who minimized physical contact, Willis brings a more aggressive, scrambling approach to the position. His willingness to tuck the ball and run, extend plays outside the pocket, and take hits presents both exciting offensive possibilities and increased injury risk.
“As we approach the 2026 season, most expect the team to carry only two quarterbacks: Willis and Quinn Ewers. However, given Willis’s physical, mobile playing style—which will likely feature more scrambling and rushing than we saw under Tagovailoa—is a two-quarterback roster sufficient?”
The Case for Carrying Three Quarterbacks
Several compelling arguments support the idea of the Dolphins adding a third quarterback to their roster before the season begins. The physical nature of Willis’s game makes him statistically more likely to miss time due to injury compared to a traditional pocket passer. NFL history is filled with examples of mobile quarterbacks who have suffered injuries while running or taking hits outside the pocket.
The key factors that supporters of a three-quarterback roster point to include:
- Willis’s aggressive scrambling style increases exposure to potential injuries
- The Dolphins are in a rebuilding phase and cannot afford to rely on inexperienced depth
- Quinn Ewers, while talented, has limited NFL experience as a backup
- Adding a veteran third quarterback could provide valuable mentorship
- The waiver wire often becomes thin at the position once the season begins
Those who advocate for maintaining only two quarterbacks argue that the roster spot could be better utilized elsewhere, particularly on defense or special teams. They contend that if both Willis and Ewers were to go down with injuries, the team’s season would effectively be over regardless of who the third-string quarterback might be.
Exploring Available Options
Should the Dolphins’ front office decide to pursue a third quarterback, they would have several avenues to explore. The team could look at veteran free agents who remain unsigned, monitor the waiver wire as other teams make their final roster cuts, or potentially explore trade options with quarterback-rich organizations.
The current roster does feature some developmental options who could potentially fill this role, but questions remain about whether any of these players would be capable of winning games if called upon in an emergency situation. A proven veteran with starting experience could provide valuable insurance during what promises to be a challenging rebuilding season.
As training camp progresses and the preseason schedule approaches, the Dolphins’ front office will need to make a definitive decision on this crucial roster question. The choice they make could have significant implications for the team’s success in 2026 and beyond. For Dolphins fans, the debate continues to rage about whether two quarterbacks are truly enough to navigate an entire NFL season, especially with a dynamic playmaker like Malik Willis leading the charge.
